WA-DSHS

Facilitating Communication for Medical Histories

Interpreters can improve facilitation of communication for medical histories by understanding providers’ goals, communication styles, and different types of histories. Concepts presented by Michelle Scott, RN include the S.O.A.P. process, pain assessment, the 5 components of a medical history, communication techniques and styles, and patient reactions.

Interpreting in Emergency Department Settings

In this interview, Registered Nurse Ron Coronado describes the emergency department setting from triage to discharge. Practical tips for medical interpreters are provided for good communication, preparation, and managing dilemmas.

Problem Solving for Spanish Interpreters

Gloria Guzman, WA-DSHS certified medical interpreter, shares personal experiences as a professional medical interpreter to highlight cultural and linguistic dilemmas that are common among Spanish interpreters.

Sexual History Taking and Sex Education: Guidelines for Medical Interpreters

Ron Coronado, RN discusses the healthcare provider’s approach to taking sexual histories and providing sex education. Sexually transmitted diseases, social stigma and interpreting ethics are addressed. The corresponding glossary contains over 60 medical terms.

Fragile Moments: Interpreting for Families in the NICU

This presentation by Michelle Scott, RN explores the psychosocial dynamics of interpreting for families in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Terminology related to health professions and acronyms is covered.

Diabetes Nutrition Education: An Introduction for Interpreters

In this interview, Registered Dietician Debra Hook explains special considerations for communicating with patients when providing nutrition education to diabetics in inpatient and outpatient settings. The corresponding online “Diabetes” glossary has 109 valuable terms!

Interpreting for Physical Therapy Encounters – Part 2 (Demonstration)

This demonstration with physical therapist Mary Sondag provides scenarios for common rehabilitation exercises and assistive devices. The guest talks to the “patient” as she would in a true-to-life encounter, allowing the viewer to practice interpreting.

Interpreting for Domestic Violence Encounters

This interview with clinical psychologist Adriane Nada provides an overview of domestic violence services and guidelines for interpreters assigned to appointments at counseling sessions or crisis shelters.

Dynamics of Communication in Mental Health – Part 1

This first part of the interview with Susan Potts, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, covers the goals of counseling in an outpatient setting, as well as ways that interpreters can prepare for facilitating communication in emotionally-charged encounters. The corresponding medical glossary contains over 30 mental health terms.

Dynamics of Communication in Mental Health – Part 2

This second part of the interview with licensed clinical psychologist Susan Potts covers the goals of counseling in an outpatient setting, as well as ways that interpreters can prepare for facilitating communication in emotionally-charged encounters. The corresponding glossary contains over 30 mental health terms.

Interpreting for Trauma Survivors

During this interview with physician Lucia Roncalli, normal physiological responses to psychological trauma are explained within the context of communicating with patients during a medical encounter. An actual patient/provider scenario allows the viewer to see therapy in action, while also providing an opportunity to practice interpreting the encounter.

Interpreting for Physical Therapy Encounters – Part 1 (Theory)

This interview with physical therapist Mary Sondag covers the role of the physical therapist, dynamics of communication with the patient and family members, and practical tips for interpreters.